Scare at Royal Liverpool, Hunter Mahan’s new role, Royal Dornoch’s clubhouse, Michael Kim’s travel stats. The Back Nine.
Nelly Korda remains winless in 2025. At the Grant Thornton Invitational in Naples, Florida, the World No. 2 and partner Denny McCarthy finished tied for second behind Lauren Coughlin and Andrew Novak. England’s Charley Hull and Michael Brennan also shared second place. Despite the lack of a trophy, the event was a success for Korda, especially as her sister Jessica returned to competitive golf post-maternity leave, finishing T13 with Bud Cauley.
McCarthy praised Korda: ‘Since I first played with Nelly three years ago, I’ve known what an incredible ball striker she is. Watching her up close is amazing. She never gets too high or too low, even when the course demands tough shots. I’ve picked up a lot from her short game. Thank you for that.’ Sometimes, the experience outweighs the hardware.
Korda has one last shot at a 2025 title this weekend at the PNC Championship, where she’ll team up with her father Petr. Defending champions Bernhard and Jason Langer might have something to say about that.
Hunter Mahan swings again—for Hollywood
What’s Hunter Mahan up to these days? The six-time PGA Tour winner has stepped away from pro golf and is no longer ranked, but he’s still got the swing. Mahan is now serving as Adam Sandler’s golf double in the upcoming ‘Happy Gilmore 2’.
WWII bomb defused at Royal Liverpool
A wartime scare at Royal Liverpool: a World War II bomb was discovered during drainage work, buried about 1.5 meters deep. The course was evacuated and the bomb squad safely detonated the device. Liverpool was heavily bombed during WWII, second only to London. Royal Liverpool, founded in 1869, has hosted 13 Open Championships, with winners including Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and most recently Brian Harman.
Dustin Johnson to debut at 2026 Dubai Desert Classic
Dustin Johnson will make his first appearance at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic in January 2026. The two-time major winner and former World No. 1 will join a star-studded field including Rory McIlroy, Viktor Hovland, Tommy Fleetwood, Shane Lowry, and fellow LIV golfer Tyrrell Hatton at Emirates Golf Club.
Royal Dornoch unveils new clubhouse
Royal Dornoch has opened its new £13.9 million clubhouse, replacing the 116-year-old original. The official inauguration is set for spring, but members were the first to step inside. The new facility enhances the experience at one of the world’s top courses, originally designed by Old Tom Morris. General Manager Neil Hampton said the building will also play a vital role in the town’s social life.
Michael Kim’s 2025 travel stats
Michael Kim